As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, a concerned Muslim woman has raised questions about the role of Halaal certification bodies in South Africa — such as the South African National Halaal Authority (SANHA) in legitimising products linked to companies accused of supporting Israel.
Her concerns come amidst global calls for boycotts and sanctions in response to what Amnesty International and other organisations have labelled a genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
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‘Why Are Zionist Products Still Certified?’
Khadija Mahida, speaking in an interview with Salaamedia, voiced frustration with what she perceives as a disconnect between the ethical obligations of Halaal certifying authorities and the growing consumer-led boycott movement against companies with ties to Israel.
“We’re living in times where there are so many entrepreneurs, Muslim or not, that can provide us in South Africa with an alternative,” Mahida stated. “Why must you guys as the big boys of business continue to be on the drive of providing a space to Zionist products?”
“SANHA, what are you doing to remove yourself from a Zionist entity? We as Muslims are not supposed to be supporting it. Why is your stamp still on Simba? Why is your stamp still on so many other products?”
Her comments highlight the importance of the global Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. The BDS campaign, launched in 2005 by Palestinian civil society, calls for economic and cultural boycotts of Israel until it complies with international law.
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The Role of Halaal Certification in a Time of Crisis
Mahida’s critique is not just about certification—it’s about complicity. “We sit here as a Muslim ummah in South Africa relying on you to make sure that you surpass product procedure in order for us to have the best for our households,” she said. “As the authorities, you are becoming complicit.”
Her remarks come as South African groups such as the SA BDS Coalition and South African Jews for a Free Palestine (SAJFP) intensify calls for boycotts of companies like McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, and Procter & Gamble—all of which are alleged to have ties to Israel or to have supported the Israeli military during its ongoing offensive in Gaza.
Amnesty International has concluded that Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to genocide, citing the deliberate targeting of civilians, destruction of infrastructure, and deprivation of essential resources.
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Do Boycotts Actually Work?
While some remain sceptical about the effectiveness of consumer boycotts, history suggests otherwise. Boycotts that are well-organised, have clear demands, and are supported by active consumers can lead to significant change—even if only one in four reaches its policy goals.
The anti-apartheid boycotts of South African goods in the 1980s, the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955, and the Delano Grape Strike in the U.S. are often cited as examples of successful consumer-led movements that drove systemic change.
Mahida urges Halaal bodies to engage with grassroots campaigns and movements like BDS to ensure that their certification processes align with broader ethical considerations.
This article will be updated to include comment from the relevant bodies once obtained.
Image via The Meathead Store.
